April 6, 2012

Ernie,

It is hard to believe that twelve years have passed since we met.  I was the counselor intern; you were campus safety.  My, oh my. . .the summer that changed both our lives immensely for the best!
I had always heard when "you know. . .you know."  I paid that little to no attention at all because I had also heard that same sentiment when referring to the end of a relationship. . .and I was hard headed about that, as you and I are both aware.

Having come out of a five year long tumultuous college relationship, that was the last thing on my mind as we sat down to a three hour meal at Claim Jumpers.  Telling you my story and hearing myself for the first time...full of truth because there was no judgement on your part-- was life changing and I knew that I was through.  I knew I deserved more and I knew I was definitely interested in you!  And so it began--a rather quick courtship (three months) to my dad's chagrin. . .but when you know, you know.  Right?  We both knew and went for it and have never looked back--only forward.

The engagement was a little longer than either of us planned, but happily that gave everyone time to digest the realness of our love and people approved. And if they didn't, we no longer cared.  And we built our little house together--as Little pointed out on the way to your dad and mom's one weekend, remember?  The brown horse and the white.  I giggle now as I type that.  We laugh each time we pass that landmark together. . .still.  He was so young and such a part of you! Although divorced, or having a child were never on my list:  God knew you two were just what I needed! Together we would grow that once in a life time kind of love.

Married ten years ago today, April 6, 2002. Ten years have come and gone. . .career changes, cancer, babies, mental illness,  co-parenting, house renovations, living apart due to a short work stint up North, dreams realized, dreams crushed, faith seeking, church seeking, jokes and tears, laughter and chaos. . .but we are still here:  Stronger than ever!  I have said it before and I will say it again--our marriage would not be what it is today had you and I not traveled the roads we traveled before God brought us together.  You make me want to be my best self daily.  You sacrifice and work hard so that my dreams can be realized, and none of that goes without great appreciation.  I love you.

I love you more today than I did yesterday. How is that even possible?  But it is! I will love you more tomorrow than I do today. Your wit, your laughter, your teasing and cuddles, how you treat our kids, your willingness to help others, your work ethic, your knowledge, how you choose to love me, even on my worst days. . .
God has blessed us and I will be forever grateful!
 My dad wrote me a song when I was a little girl. . .heck, he even sang it to me at our wedding. . .
this line echoes through my heart and soul,
"May dreams come true, for you. "
They already have thanks to you.
Every. Single. One. 
I love you.

Happy Anniversary!